As part of a financial assessment we will take into account your assets. An asset is:
- money (such as savings)
- property (such as your home)
What is deprivation of assets?
Deprivation of assets happens when you intentionally reduce or transfer ownership of these assets to avoid contributing towards the cost of your care and support.
If we determine that you have deliberately reduced your assets, this may have involve but is not limited to:
- transferring your property to someone else
- giving away large amounts of money, such as a gift
- making large or unusual purchases that are inconsistent with previous spending habits
- placing your assets in a trust that cannot be changed or reversed
- converting assets into a form that is disregarded in financial assessments, such as personal possessions
- reducing assets through excessive or extravagant spending
- purchase an investment bond with life insurance
Deciding if deprivation of assets occurred
When determining whether asset deprivation has occurred, we assess the timing and purpose of the asset transfer. We consider weather:
- you were aware that you would require care and support when you transferred your assets
- avoiding care and support costs was a key reason for giving away your assets
- you knew you would be responsible for contributing to the cost of your care
If we conclude deliberate deprivation has occurred
These assets may still be considered as part of your finances when assessing your eligibility for funding support. This means you will be expected to contribute towards your care costs based on the value of those assets, even if they are no longer in your possession.
Disagree with our decision
You can request a review of a social care decision through our appeals process.